How to Pick the Right Size Power Generator for Your Business

November 11, 2021

If you own or operate a business, you know that having a reliable backup power source is essential to keep your operations running smoothly. But how do you know which size generator is right for your needs? Understanding how commercial and industrial generator sizing works is crucial to know how to select the best option.

Read on for a guide to ensuring you have the right generator sizing for your business needs.

  1. Determine Your Power Requirements

Generators are available in a wide range of sizes with unique capabilities to meet various requirements. One of the most essential determinations you must make is the amount of power and wattage your generator will need to put out to support all your applications.

Start by making a list of everything your generator will need to power. This includes things like industrial tools, machinery, and equipment for your primary locations as well as remote sites and events.

Once you’ve compiled your list, you’ll need to calculate the total wattage that will be consumed, including the wattage required to start your equipment and keep it running, to determine your capacity range. Wattage is typically measured in kilowatts (kW), where one kW equals 1,000 watts.

For industrial generator sizing, it’s a good idea to choose a capacity that’s slightly larger than your estimated need to accommodate equipment updates.

You’ll also want to consider whether you need a single-phase or three-phase generator. Single-phase generators produce voltage levels that are ideal for residences and small businesses, while three-phase generators support larger applications like manufacturing companies and heavy-duty operations.

2. Assess Your Site Conditions

When you are deciding on the best generator, it’s crucial to consider the logistics of your site. You should ask yourself questions like:

  • How much space do I have for the generator?
  • Are there any environmental concerns on my site?
  • Is the generator for emergency, standby, or primary power?
  • Do I need a portable or stationary generator solution?
  • What are the emissions and voltage regulations in my area?

Your answers to these questions will help you quickly narrow down the list of ideal generator options for your specific work environment.

3. Get Assistance

There are many different resources you can use to help you determine what size generator is best for your business. Caterpillar® has an online tool known as the SpecSizer that is designed to identify the right generator size based on the information you provide. To use the SpecSizer, you simply need to input your Caterpillar user ID and password.

The experts at Mustang Cat are also available to help you calculate your ideal commercial generator sizing. Our power systems team will assess your site requirements and match them to the best generators for the job from within our extensive inventory.

Visit us at one of our many locations throughout Southeast Texas, or give us a call at 800-256-1001. You can also submit our online contact form and we will be happy to connect with you as soon as possible.